North Carolina Online Gambling Quick Facts
| Real Money Online Casinos | Not legal |
| Online Sports betting | Legal since 2023 |
| Sweepstakes Casinos | Legal |
| Land-based Casinos | Legal |
| Horse Racing | Legal |
| Legal Gambling Age | 21 |
| Gambling Authority | North Carolina State Lottery Commission |
NC Online Gambling Timeline
- 2025: Retail and online brands continue discussions with the State Lottery Commission regarding a possible regulation of a real money online casino North Carolina.
- 2024: In March, the first online sportsbooks, including BetMGM, DraftKings, and Caesars, go live in NC.
- 2023: Governor Roy Cooper signs HB 347 in June, regulating online and sports betting.
- 2005: Harrah’s Cherokee Valley River Casino in Murphy accepts its first players.
- 2006: Launch of the North Carolina Education Lottery.
- 1997: Harrah’s Cherokee Casino opens its doors in Cherokee.
Are Online Casinos Legal in North Carolina as of October 2025
real money online gambling casinos are not legal in North Carolina.
Online sports betting was legalized in 2023; retail betting had been live in North Carolina for several years.
Currently, only BetRivers.net social casino offering virtual currency is available for players. It is not a real money casino or a sweeps casino site. Its operation is a gray area. Players need to be at least 21 years old.
NC State Lottery Commission Says
Is There a Winnings Tax at an NC Online Casino
Yes, gambling winnings in North Carolina are subject to a 24% federal tax, just like in other US states. When you request a withdrawal from your online casino North Carolina, it will deduct that amount before processing it. A state tax will also apply according to your income.
Can I Bet on Sports in North Carolina
Yes, there are 8 licensed online sportsbooks. In June 2023, Gov. Roy Cooper had signed HB 347, which gave the green light to retail and online sports betting. The first online sportsbooks launched in March 2024, with brands like DraftKings, FanDuel, BetMGM, Bet365, and Fanatics Sportsbook.
| Brand | Operator | License Number |
|---|---|---|
| FanDuel | Betfair Interactive US, LLC | NCO-0005 |
| BETMGM | BETMGM, LLC | NCO-0007 |
| DraftKings | Crown NC Gaming, LLC | NCO-0002 |
| Fanatics | FBG Enterprises Opco, LLC | NCO-0004 |
| bet365 | Hillside (North Carolina), LLC | NCO-0003 |
| ESPN BET | Penn Sports Interactive, LLC | NCO-0001 |
| Caesars | Tribal Casino Gaming Enterprise, Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians | NCO-0008 |
| Underdog Sports | Underdog Sports Wagering, LLC | NCO-0006 |
You can bet on thousands of pre-match and live markets in the NFL, MLB, NBA, UFC, and more competitions.
NC Online Casino Bonus
North Carolina online casino bonuses are practically non existent. The only casino available is BetRiver’s Casino4Fun available at BetRivers.net.
BetRivers.net offers daily free credits (VCs) every four hours.
You cannot “cash out” any money because BetRivers.NET is a play-for-fun social casino. All games are played for fun only.
Daily Login Bonus
Every 4 hours, you can collect Virtual Credits from BetRivers.net after you log in. Once a day, you can also get a special Daily Bonus. BetRivers.net also allows credits purchase if you cannot wait for free bonus refill.
Payment Options
BetRivers.net accepts visa, Mastercard, Discover, American Express Credit cards, Debit cards, PayPal, online banking, and Pre-paid cards.
You can also purchase directly from your bank account using online banking.
NC Responsible Gambling
North Carolina provides several responsible gambling resources to assist players in maintaining control. These resources are designed to help players gamble responsibly and seek help if needed. Some of these resources include:
- The NC Problem Gambling Program, which provides comprehensive services, including prevention, education, outreach, and treatment for gambling issues.
- The NC Problem Gambling Helpline, which offers free confidential help 24/7, ensuring that support is always accessible.
- Tools and resources provided by reputable online casinos, such as setting limits on gambling and self-exclusion options.
In addition to state-run programs, support groups like Gamblers Anonymous offer a community-based approach to overcoming gambling addiction. The National Council on Problem Gambling also plays a vital role in educating, supporting, and advocating for individuals affected by gambling problems in the Tar Heel State.
Which Are the Land-Based Casinos in North Carolina
North Carolina’s retail casinos provide various gaming choices and facilities. Harrah’s Cherokee Casino Resort, the largest casino in the state, features over 3,000 slots and 160 table games across a 150,000-square-foot gaming floor.
The resort also includes an Asian gaming suite, a WSOP Poker room, and a retail Caesars Sportsbook. With over 1,100 hotel rooms, a spa, golf courses, and numerous dining options, it offers a comprehensive resort experience.
Harrah’s Cherokee Valley River Casino offers a more intimate experience with 1,000 slots and 60 table games. Opened in 2015, this casino has quickly become a popular destination for gaming enthusiasts in North Carolina, making it one of the go-to North Carolina casinos.
Caesars Entertainment operates both properties and offers extensive accommodations and amenities.
Catawba Two Kings Casino is another notable venue, currently operating as a temporary facility with 500 slot machines. Plans for a permanent facility include a 1,500-room hotel and additional gaming options, promising an exciting future for Two Kings Casino.
These land-based casinos provide a robust gaming experience, complementing the state’s online gambling options.
Last updated:
NC Online Gambling FAQs
- Is a real money online casino North Carolina available?
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No, real money NC casinos are not available. You can also place bets on sports and horse racing events.
- Which are the best sweepstakes casinos in North Carolina?
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None. Sweepstakes based casinos are not licensed for operations in the state.
- What is the legal gambling age in North Carolina?
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The legal gambling age in North Carolina is 21 for land-based casinos and sportsbooks and 18 for the state lottery and bingo.